KreatesKards Journey Now on Facebook Too

KreatesKards Journey

Please take a minute to come and join in the fun of KreatesKards Journey on Facebook.

Thanks.

Retiring Items:

Just a reminder too that the retiring items for Fun Stampers Journey are currently 30% off while supplies last.   Many items have already sold out.  On May 1, the sale price on the remaining items will go to 40% off while supplies last through the end of June 2016.  Many are in limited quantities.

If there is a product you really want, please order now and don't wait.  You take the risk of missing out completely.  

Orders may be placed through my website.   Sale prices (that apply) are shown.   Bloom Benefits apply for each $50 spent (before tax & shipping).   

Let me know if you have any questions.  

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Mermaid Wishes Part of Fun Stampers Journey Bloom Benefits

Mermaid Wishes (Bloom Benefits Product) from Fun Stampers Journey is a perfect match to go with the Nautical Adventure Prints.  She is cute as a plain stamped image or using watercolors, pencils, or markers to color her in.  Wonderful to send to a child too so they can color the mermaid themselves.  

I fancy cut the mermaid out by hand.  Then using the Journey Foam Squares attached her to the card placing her over the ribbon area.   

1.  Make card base
2.  Attach sailboats piece using Easy Glide Adhesive
3.  Put ribbon on the smaller piece of Pretty Pansy Card Stock using White Liner.  Then attach full piece to the sail boat piece using either White Liner or Easy Glide Adhesive  ---- look at different ways to place it.  I placed it further down on the card so that the sailboats showed up better. 
4.  Fancy cut out the mermaid.  Our Details Pro Shears are fantastic for this type of cutting.  They are small, sharp and easy to maneuver around the design.
5.  Attach the mermaid to the card using Journey Foam Squares. 
6.  Put smaller piece of lighter color card stock inside of the card.
7.  Don't forget to sign the back of the card to show you made it.

With a darker card base, I usually put a 5" x 3 3/4" piece of card stock inside of the card so that my personal message and/or stamped message inside of the card can be easily read. 

Attaching the ribbon was a breeze using White Liner (double sided tape).  I put two rows of it on the back of the ribbon, then attached to the card piece.   Make sure your piece of ribbon is long enough to wrap behind the back of the card piece. 

Fun Stampers Journey Products Used:
Mermaid Wishes AT-0161 (Bloom Benefit)
Nautical Adventure Prints PP-0025 (Spring Into Summer Mini Catalog)
Pretty Pansy Card Stock CS-0029
Whip Cream Card Stock CS-0040
Black Licorice Ink Pad IP-0041
Lavender Fusion Satin Ribbon AC-0108
White Liner AD-0001
Journey Foam Squares AD-0084 (1/4")      OR     AD 0085  (1/2")
Easy Glide Adhesive AD-0081      Refill AD-0082
Details Pro Shears  TO-0063 (4 1/2")

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Day 3 of Backgrounds Created With FSJ Bubble Wrap

This is the last of my three day series showcasing the backgrounds I created using the bubble wrap packaging from Fun Stampers Journey packages I have received.

Finished Card

Background - Single Color Used

Pounced it out until faded, then repeat.

Fun Stampers Journey Products Used For Background:

Bubble Wrap - crumpled up, not flat, to use on ink pad then card stock

Banner Party Stamp Set (set of 13) SS-0009

Fun Stampers Journey Products Used to Finish Card:

Love Tags Stamp Set (set of 10) SS-0055
Star Frame Elements AC-0150 (Bloom Benefits)

Green Olive Ink Pad IP-0072

Whip Cream Card Stock CS-0040
Sweet Pear Card Stock CS-0095
Green Olive Card Stock CS-0113

Journey Craft Glue AD-0111

Easy Glide Adhesive AD-0081    Refill AD-0082

Journey Foam Squares AD-0084 (1/4") OR AD-0085 (1/2)

Journey Platinum Machine TO-0090
Punch Handle TO-0031 (a handle is needed to use the cartridge paper punches)*
Scallop Circle Punch (2") TO-0043
Circle Punch (1 3/4") TO-0016
Scallop Circle Punch (1 1/2") TO-0011
Green Olive Satin Ribbon 3/4" AC-0107

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Loving the Backgrounds Created with FSJ Bubble Wrap (post 2 of 2 today)

This is the 2nd day of 3 days that I am showcasing backgrounds made with the Fun Stampers Journey bubble wrap.   Our products come so well wrapped in this beautiful green bubble wrap, so I usually have some here at home.  

Finished Card

Close-up of the background I created.  

Darker is the first time stamping, then kept going without re-inking to fade it out.  Repeated until the page was filled in.

Then used a contrasting color and a stamp to add additional interest to the design.

Fun Stampers Journey Products Used For Background:

Bubble Wrap - crumpled up, not flat, to use on ink pad then card stock

Banner Party Stamp Set (set of 13) SS-0009

Fun Stampers Journey Products Used to Finish Card:

Love Tags Stamp Set (set of 10) SS-0055
Star Frame Elements AC-0150 (Bloom Benefits)

Ornate Label Dies (set of 5) DI-0077

Sweet Berry Ink Pad IP-0029

Green Olive Ink Pad IP-0072

Bubble Gum Card Stock CS-0099

Sweet Berry Card Stock CS-0034

Whip Cream Card Stock CS-0040

Journey Craft Glue AD-0111

Easy Glide Adhesive AD-0081    Refill AD-0082

Journey Foam Squares AD-0084 (1/4") OR AD-0085 (1/2)

Journey Platinum Machine TO-0090

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Fun Stampers Journey May 2016 Bloom Box Preview (1 of 2 posts today)

May 2016 Bloom Box

Featuring "Color World" stamp set designed by Richard Garay

Here's the link to the PDF ... click here.

Bloom Box is a six month subscription service* through Fun Stampers Journey.  

"Each month you will receive an exclusive stamp set, four precut and kitted cards and easy to follow instructions!

Designed by Richard Garay himself, you'll get to play with new product and learn some of his amazing crafting techniques."

Signing up is easy.   Just go to my website and click on Bloom Box OR on shop, then add to your shopping cart (KO-0001)  http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector    Bloom Box is billed/charged to you monthly.  It starts with the month that you sign up in.   So if you sign up today, your first kit will be the April 2016 Bloom Box. 

*In purchasing the Kit of the Month, you are agreeing to a six month subscription service whereby you will receive the initial kit at the time of purchase, and then one kit each month for the next five months. Ongoing kits will be mailed and charged on or around the 5th day of each month. Each kit costs $24.95 plus tax and shipping. Please note, cancelling early will result in a cancellation fee equivalent to one month's kit cost ($24.95). You must email journeycrew@journeyblooms.com to cancel.

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Creating a Background with FSJ Bubble Wrap

Fun Stampers Journey absolutely does the BEST job on packing our orders.   They truly want to ensure everything arrives without damage.   What an amazing job they do.

On one of our Coach Group Boards the other day one of the Coaches was telling how she took the bubble wrap and used it to make background images.   So being curious and loving unique backgrounds, of course I had to see what I could create with bubble wrap, some card stock, and a few ink pads.

I took an 8 1/2" x 4 5 1/2" piece of Whip Cream Card Stock, 4 small pieces of bubble wrap (cut to size with scissors), Blue Lagoon Ink Pad, Green Olive Ink Pad, Pineapple Smoothie Ink Pad, and Sweet Berry Ink Pad. 

I took a small piece of the bubble wrap and laid it flat on top of the ink pad, put a little pressure on it to grab some ink, then lifted off and laid it down in a random pattern on the Whip Cream card stock.  You can crumple up the bubble wrap, you can lay it flat, you can use the full piece  or as much as you want.   Very versatile.  I used all 4 colors.

This is the full piece flattened out.   Crease/fold in the middle to create your card.   I used the Dahlia Burst Die to create some accent pieces for my stamped images.   Used Blue Lagoon and Sweet Berry card stock.   Attached to card using Easy Glide Adhesive. 

The background red is NOT part of the card.   Here's is my finished card piece.   I stamped out 2 images Birthday Sketch stamp set (on the retiring list), colored them in with color pencils and then added in Journey Glaze and Journey Sparkle Dust to the frosting area and cherry.  Added them to the accent pieces using Journey Foam Squares so that they would sit up from the card. 

I wish the photos showed a better view of the sparkle that these have.   Depending on what you are going to use this card for, you could put a sentiment on the front or inside.   This was a thank you note for one of my wonderful customers.  

Have to share one more photo with you ... with (left side) and without (right side) Journey Glaze & Journey Sparkle Dust:

I really feel that the Journey Glaze enhances the color it is going over.  It makes it richer and deeper in color.   The Journey Sparkle Dust adds the WOW factor too.

Fun Stampers Journey Products Used:
Birthday Sketch Stamp Set - 4 stamps - SS-0013 (retiring)
Dahlia Burst Die - set of 5 - DI-0127
Whip Cream Card Stock CS-0040
Blue Lagoon Card Stock CS-0004
Sweet Berry Card Stock CS-0034
Sweet Berry Ink Pad IP-0029
Blue Lagoon Ink Pad IP-0002
Green Olive IP-0072
Pineapple Smoothie Ink Pad IP-0014
Journey Glaze AD-0002 2 oz  OR AD-0003 4 oz bottle
Journey Sparkle Dust AC-0013
Journey Foam Squares AD-0084 (1/4") OR AD-0085 (1/2")
Easy Glide Adhesive AD-0081        AD-0082  Refill
True Color Fusion Stamp Cleaner IP-0089

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Add a Little Sparkle to Your Projects Using Journey Sparkle Dust

IMPORTANT NEWS FIRST - Lemon Drop and Limeade Splash Ink Pads:   We were told this last week.  I don't have either color, but wanted to get the word out to all of you in case anyone might be "scent sensitive".    "Lemon Drop and Limeade Splash tend to have the strangest smells.   That being said the smell only comes from the ink pad and is not transferred to your card stock once it's stamped and dried.   Please keep in mind that these two do have a smell due to the hybrid configuration of the pigment."  It was discussed on the Coaches' board and most didn't even notice any odor, while a few others did.   Again, this is just a heads up for those who are "scent sensitive".  It is only these two colors.

Today's blog post:
Today I am sharing a mini tutorial with you on how to create these beautiful butterflies with color and Journey Sparkle Dust.   Be sure to read all the way down too to see the card I added them to.

Fun Stampers Journey (FSJ) has a wonderful product called Journey Sparkle Dust that will allow you to add sparkle to your projects.   It is so easy to do too.

Upper Left:  Plain

Upper Right:  Journey Glaze + Sparkle Dust

Lower Left:  Sweet Berry Re-Inker brushed on + Journey Glaze + Sparkle Dust

Lower Right:  Blue Lagoon Re-Inker sponged on + Journey Glaze - Sparkle Dust

Notes & Directions for Butterflies:

Decide whether you want a color on the butterflies or to leave them plain/natural.

If you brushed or sponged on ink, allow to dry a couple of minutes before going to the next step.

Do NOT shake the Journey Glaze as that may create bubbles in the glaze as you apply.

Journey Glaze creates a high gloss effect on the item.  Can be used on card stock, wood, and many other products.    Personally, I don't feel there is an odor to the glaze.

If you are planning to add Sparkle Dust to the project, add it immediately after putting on the Journey Glaze.  

With the Sparkle Dust I worked over a paper towel and took pinches of the Sparkle Dust and released over the butterfly that had been covered with Journey Glaze.   Found I had very little excess Sparkle Dust on my work surface, so I could just throw away the paper towel when I finished.   

Reminder:   If you are working under a fan or near the air conditioning vent --- Sparkle Dust is lightweight and can travel.   Be cautious of where you are working with it.   If adding Sparkle Dust to a larger item, I suggest putting the Sparkle Dust in a plastic container with lid so that you can work over the container and tap excess back into the container. 

1.   Choose the item to decorate   

2.   Color the item & allow to dry a few minutes

3.   Squeeze on the Journey Glaze filling in the complete area.

4.   Immediately add Sparkle Dust

Directions for Card: 
1.  Create a card base .... Whip Cream Card Stock 8 1/2" x 5 1/2"
2,  Stamp leaf image using Green Olive  over the full sheet - this will become your card front and back design.   Then fold in half firmly creasing it to create your card fold.  
3.  Using the Journey Platinum Machine cut out the Hexagon Background on a piece of Cranberry Bliss Card Stock 5 1/2" x 4 1/4"  (perfect fit for the card front).  
     NOTE:   Bloom Tool is a big help in removing the pieces from dies.
4.  Glue Hexagon Background to the card front using Journey Craft Glue.   Glue is added the Hexagon Background piece, then that is placed on your card front.   I went around the edges, then added thin lines of the glue on the other outlines so that the complete piece is adhered to the card front.
5.   Cover the back of the butterflies with Journey Craft Glue.  Apply firm pressure when you do this.
6.   Add a sentiment inside or out.

Definitely a multi-use card.   Change out the background stamp, the embellishment, and the sentiment to create a card for any occasion. 

Fun Stampers Journey Products Used:
Journey Sparkle Dust AC-0013
Journey Glaze AD-0002
Summer Wings AC-0208 (Bloom Benefits)  Spring Into Summer Catalog
Dahlia Burst - set of 5 stamps- SS-0203
Hexagon Background Die DI-0063
Journey Platinum Machine TO-0090
Sweet Berry Re-Inker RI-0010
Blue Lagoon Re-Inker RI-0029
Green Olive Ink Pad IP-0072
Cranberry Bliss Card Stock CS-0090
Whip Cream Card Stock CS-0040
Fusion Ink Sponges JM-0018
Angled Paint Brush (TO-0100) (or brush of your choice)
Journey Craft Glue AD-0111
True Color Fusion Stamp Cleaner IP-0088
Bloom Tool TO-0073

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Storage for All of My Wonderful Fun Stampers Journey Products

I try to stay organized and realized I needed a bit more space than I share with you on my post on April 6th. 

Luckily my husband agreed, so Saturday we spent the day exploring options.   I decided on 3 larger cubes with a wood shelf over the top.   Then I could pull the paper trays out of the smaller cube unit and stack them on top of the new one.

Before:

After:

Now I have incentive to go purchase more card stock!!!!   Can't have any empty trays.   LOL.

The dining room table is right across from this area, plus I have a table set up in the living room area that I can work on too.   I'm blessed to have a husband who doesn't mind my crafts being in different areas of our apartment.   When we had our home (downsized a couple years back) I took over the family/dining/and part of the kitchen area.

It really does help to have a bit of organization when it comes to crafting.   This way I can see my card stock immediately and I have my other items in separate canvas bins.   So larger stamps in one, dies in another, etc.    

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Bloom Benefits for Fun Stampers Journey

Did you realize that Fun Stampers Journey has a program called Bloom Benefits?   It's a great way to earn FREE exclusive products.   This program is available year round.

Details:  
For each $50 (before tax & shipping) you spend on items in any of our current catalogs, you are eligible to receive your choice of one of the special Bloom Benefits, including ATS's and accessory packs.  When  you go to through the checkout process, a popup window will ask you to choose from those available.   There is no limit to the number you can earn in that order.  Applies to that specific order only.

In our current main catalog and in the Spring into Summer Mini Catalog the Bloom Benefits are listed on page 5.
 
Wanted to share with you one of my recent Bloom Benefits from the Spring into Summer Mini Catalog.

 Summer Wings AC-0208  (24 pieces)

I had fun playing with these and seeing how I could change the look of them.   

1.  Upper Left - plain butterfly

2.  Upper Right - Journey Glaze & Sparkle Dust

3.  Lower Left - Sweet Berry Reinker brushed on, then Journey Glaze & Sparkle Dust

4.  Lower Right - Blue Lagoon Reinker sponged on, then Journey Glaze & Sparkle Dust

Fun Stampers Products Used:

Bloom Benefits, Summer Wings AC-0208

Journey Glaze AD-0002 (2 oz) or AD-0003 (4 oz)

Journey Sparkle Duts AC-0013

Sweet Berry Reinker RI-0010

Blue Lagoon Reinker RI-0029

Fusion Ink Sponges JM-0014

The butterflies are a great accessory/embellishment for any card, scrapbook page or other item you are creating.   Could be attached with Journey Craft Glue (AD-0111) or Journey Foam Square (AD-0084).  If you want them to have dimension, use the foam squares. 

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Fun Stampers Journey Dream Catcher ATS

Click on photo to enlarge

My mom loved dream catchers.  So whenever I see one I think of her.   One of my treasured possessions is a pair of handmade dream catcher earrings that she often wore.

I used this for a Thank You card for one of my customers the other day.   I wish you could see the richness of the Bronze Silks that are splattered on the card base. 

It is so easy to have the look of paper piercing too when you can use a piercing element die.   So even and precise, these are such fun to use and add the WOW look to your card too.  

To change out the look of the card, use watercolors, pencils or markers to add color to the stamped image.

Fun Stampers Journey Items Used:

Dream Catcher (AT-0120)

Journey Bronze Silks (IP-0091)

Black Licorice Ink Pad (IP-0041)

Oatmeal Cookie Card Stock (CS-0023)

Hazelnut Blend Card Stock (CS-0013)

Journey Platinum Machine (TO-0090)

Journey Rectangles (DI-0041)  (piercing elements are also in this set) 

Easy Glide Adhesive (AD-0081)    Refill (AD-0082)

Journey Foam Squares (AD-0084)

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Pink, Red, and Gold for an Anniversary Card Using Fun Stampers Journey Products

For more detail, click on photo to enlarge.

The card base on this card is created using Bubble Gum Card Stock (CS-0099).   I actually die cut into the card front using the Hexagon Background Die (DI-0063) which is part of the Journey Media Collection.  I saved the cut-outs for another project.  

Once I had my card base die cut, I then backed the card front with a slightly smaller piece of Cranberry Bliss Card Stock (CS-0090).   I put a very small line of Journey Craft Glue (AD-0111) on the frame edge of the Cranberry Bliss Card Stock and a few spots on the back side of the die cut Bubble Gum Card Front.   Carefully put the two glued pieces together.  

Next I took a piece of Cranberry Bliss Card Stock (CS-0090) that was just slightly larger than the die and cut out the Hexagon Background.   I took the die cut pieces (separate shapes) and put one or more Journey Foam Squares (AD-0084) on the back and then placed them on the card to add dimension and height.   NOTE:  Before you put the Journey Foam Squares on, be sure you have the right shape for that spot and also that you are putting the foam square on the correct side.   No two shapes are the same in this design.

Then using Journey Craft Glue (AD-0111) I adhered the Heart of Gold Elements (sold out product) to the card.   

This card could be used for an anniversary, Valentine's Day, or to tell someone how much you love them.   

Remember if you are mailing a card and it is over 1/4" thick, it will require extra postage.

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Anniversary Card Made with Fun Stampers Journey Products

Click on photo to see a larger version for more detail.

I really like cards that are tone on tone (same color used for each layer).   This card actually has 4 layers of Whip Cream Card Stock CS-0040

Layer 1:   Card Base
Layer 2:   Embossed Layer using Petals Wall Embossing Folder (EF-0007)
Layer 3:   Die Cut Layer using Hexagon Background Die from the Journey Media Collection
Layer 4:   Paper Punch Design with Sentiment*
Layer 5:   Heart of Gold Elements (no longer available - sold out)

*Not Fun Stampers Journey Products.
I have a wish list going of things I want/need to purchase.   Sentiment stamps are on the top of the list, and some more paper punches.

Embossing and die cutting were done using my Journey Platinum Machine (TO-0090).

I also used:
Easy Glide Adhesive (AD-0081) for the embossing layer
Journey Craft Glue (AD-0111) for the Die Cut Layer and to adhere the hearts.
Journey Foam Squares - Small (AD-0084) for the Paper Punch Design
Black Licorice Ink Pad (IP-0041)

I will have another anniversary card tomorrow.

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Journey Days Planner Perfect for Mother's Day Gift

Mother's Day is just around the corner.   It is May 8th.   Are you looking for a special gift for your mom, wife, or friend to give her on Mother's Day.   I have what I think is a great suggestion for a gift from Fun Stampers Journey. 

Most moms like to keep track of what they have planned for the days, weeks, and months ahead.  What a better way to do this than with a beautiful Journey Days Planner.   It now comes in 3 different color options for the cover.  They feel like leather, but are not.

JD-0015 Citrus Binder (5" x 8")   (this is the one I have)
JD-0001 Journey Girl Binder (5"x 8") (black & white stripes)
JD-0002 Be Amazing Binder (5" x 8") All white with Be Amazing written on the front)

This is the Citrus Binder.   Deep rich orange.  Love it!!!

You decide what you want to fill it with.  There is a choice of two different divider kits.   

JD-0003 Journey Girl Divider Kit  (black & white designs)

JD-0004 Be Amazing Divider Kit (bright colors/designs) (this is the one I have)

Side profile of the tabs:

Noteworthy (6 sheets plus divider)

My Journey (6 sheets plus divider)

Inspiration (6 sheets plus divider)

Be Amazing (6 sheets graph paper plus divider)

Calendar (divider only)

Bright & Colorful.

There are two calendar styles to choose from:   Monthly or Weekly or you could choose both and have the monthly first with the weekly behind it for more details and notes.   Each month has its own tab divider sheet.

JD-0011  2016 Monthly Calendar (this is the one I have)

JD-0010  2016 Weekly Calendar

Showing how it looks all set up (pen not included).

Here are some additional photos of the Journey Days Planner:

Notice the card slots on the left side, pen holder on the right, and there is a chain 

with tab on the right.   

The chain with tab says "Loving the JOURNEY".

Be sure to look at more options to add to your binder creating your own look by using Thin Metal Dies, Steel Rule Dies, Stamps, Embellishments, and even Tassels.   See the collection in the Spring Into Summer Mini Catalog on Pages 32 through 37.   Click here to view.

Wouldn't these be great too for a birthday, thank you, or thinking of you gift!!!   Order may be placed through my website.

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Fun Stampers Journey - A Birthday Surprise For Me Plus a Career Promotion

I love getting mail, probably one of the main reasons I love making greeting cards for others.   Well, imagine my surprise on Saturday to receive a padded envelope from Fun Stampers Journey.   Inside was a note and a special birthday stamp.  Richard Garay and all of the staff at Fun Stampers Journey sent me birthday wishes and a special birthday stamp called Journey Birthday.  

It is a dated stamp for 2016 and is given exclusively to Fun Stampers Journey Coaches.   I had no idea they did this.   It arrived just before my birthday (Tuesday, the 12th) so was perfect timing.

It is amazing all that the company does for its Coaches.   They really go above and beyond and make us feel so appreciated.

Here's a photo of the stamp and the greeting card that I received.

Also on Saturday I was officially promoted to "Journey Coach Leader" because of my sales volume.   Thank you to all of my wonderful customers for making this possible.  I couldn't of done it without you.   I appreciate your purchases no matter the size.   Each and every customer is important to me.  I love sharing my passion for card making and quality craft projects.

If you would like to learn more about becoming a Coach too for this amazing company, please contact me or go to my website and click on Become a Coach.  Lots of information on the website.   If you already know you want to be a Coach, you sign up under that section too.

There are four different options for your starter kit.   Whether you want to be a business builder or a hobby Coach, you are welcome to join Fun Stampers Journey.

Click Here to see the options in pdf format.

 

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

 

Fun Stampers Journey Note Pocket Thin Metal Die

I am a major fan of the thin metal dies.   I have had a Sizzix Big Shot for years, and am now the proud owner of a Journey Platinum Machine (TO-0090).   I like that the Journey Platinum has a much larger work area to place dies and embossing folders.   Really a time saver. 

I made a card today using the Note Pocket Think Metal Die (DI-0025).   It's perfect to hold a business card, small note, or a gift card.   I put this on the outside of the card, but you could easily put it inside the card instead.

Here's my card with a nautical theme.

The second sample has my business card in the pocket.  Perfect size for a gift card too.

The Voyage Bound Stamp and the Nautical Adventure Prints are from the new Spring to Summer Mini Catalog.   I used color pencils to color it in.

Fun Stampers Journey Products Used:
Nautical Adventure Prints PP-0025
Voyage Bound Stamp AT-0173
Greet & Shout Stamp Set SS-0043 (on the retiring list - while supplies last)
Black Licorice Ink Pad IP-0041
Orange Creamsicle Card Stock CS-0024
Hazelnut Blend Card Stock CS-0013
Whip Cream Card Stock CS-0040
Journey Platinum Machine TO-0090
Note Pocket Thin Metal Die DI-0025
Journey Glue Dots AD-0083
Easy Glide Adhesive AD-0081      Refill  AD-0082

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Fun Stampers Journey - Rubber Stamps

One of the many things I really like about Fun Stampers Journey is that the rubber stamps do NOT need to be assembled even though they are mounted on clear blocks when you go to use them.   Gone are the days of trying to line up a label on the back part of our stamp and then hoping we got it on straight.

All stamps are come with a heavy weight envelope for your stamps to easily be stored.   Definitely a space saver.   The stamps are stored on a heavier plastic(?) sheet for easy organization within the envelope.

Here are some photos to better explain:

April 2016 Bloom Box Stamp Set

Stamps are red rubber cling mount. 

They come on a clear sheet for storage.

The Stamp Indexed stamps come with the image already on it.

No assembly, no cutting ... all the work taken care of for you.

NOTE:   There are still some stamps sets available that do NOT have the image on them.

Greet & Shout SS-0043 (on the retiring list)

I put the red dot on my items that are retiring as a quick reference for me.

The older stamp sets did not come "Stamp Indexed" with the image on the back.

This is an example.  The back side is gray/no image.

The storage sheet is opaque white.

Still the same high quality red rubber and no cutting/assembling required before use.

Reminder:   All retiring items (while supplies last) are 30% off during the month of April.   To see the complete list CLICK HERE.  

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Fun Stampers Journey My Cards - April 2016 Bloom Box

I received my April 2016 Bloom Box from Fun Stampers Journey the other day.   I immediately had to start working on them.   The cards and stamp set included were so cute.

As I was going through the directions, I realized I didn't have the ink re-inkers they had listed as needed for the project.  At first I was sad, but then realized it didn't matter.  I had color pencils, markers, pens and more that I could use instead.   I could think "outside the box" (pun intended) and still have four beautiful cards.

It was so nice to have everything pre-cut and paper pierced.   Also fantastic that a full stamp set is included with each box.   They actually put 4 cards in the kit and each one came inside its own resealable plastic bag.  

For my cards I used color pencils, Sweet Berry Fusion Ink Stamp Pad, and Black Licorice Fusion Ink Stamp Pad. 

Here's the card samples from Fun Stampers Journey for the April Bloom Box kit. 

Now to share with you my creations.   I made a few changes using color pencils for the lanterns and the gingham look background.  Also omitted the large bow as I wanted the card to go inside of an envelope to mail.  

All four cards I created.

 The only things I had to cut for this card were the lanterns and flower.

The cards have the rectangles, squares, background papers and card base already cut for us to use.   Even the paper piercing is completed when the kit arrives.  

Because I was planning to mail this card, I omitted the large bow and put the flower in its place.  Kit included the ribbon, string needed for the card.

For the gingham look background, I just used a light blue color pencil and drew lines left to right and then rotated piece and did again.   Bouquet was stamped with Sweet Berry Fusion Ink, but the rest is ribbon and lanterns were colored in with color pencils. 

Cards will be perfect for any type of celebrations (wedding, bridal shower, baby shower, birthday, anniversary, and so many more).  Each card has numerous layers for added detail and dimension.

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Fun Stampers Journey April 2016 Bloom Box

April 2016 Bloom Box

My very first shipment of the Fun Stampers Journey Bloom Box is scheduled to arrive any day now.   I can't wait to get it and make the beautiful cards inside.

The Bloom Box is a monthly subscription program where this wonderful box of creative goodies arrive at your doorstep each month.   The following is copied from my website:

"Joining Bloom Box is the easiest way to create gorgeous cards with brand-new products and share your papercrafting passion!

SIMPLE: Each month you'll receive a kit complete with an exclusive stamp set, pre-cut elements, coordinating embellishments and step-by-step instructions that will you new skills and design concepts.

FAST: In a matter of minutes, you'll create 4 eye-catching, unique greeting cards using the supplies we've provided. Everything is prepped for you. Just add your inks and a few tools, and you're ready to go!

FUN: Once you've finished, you can share your creations with your friends and family, give in a set as a gift, or use as your personal inspiration library. Better yet, use the exclusive stamp set to host your own crafting party!"


Would you like to receive a Fun Stampers Journey Bloom Box too?   If yes, please go to my website and click on Bloom Box to sign up.   (Special Note:  In purchasing the Kit of the Month, you are agreeing to a six month subscription service whereby you will receive the initial kit at the time of purchase, and then one kit each month for the next five months. Ongoing kits will be mailed and charged on or around the 5th day of each month. Each kit costs $24.95 plus tax and shipping. Please note, cancelling early will result in a cancellation fee equivalent to one month's kit cost ($24.95). You must email journeycrew@journeyblooms.com to cancel.)

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available

Fun Stampers Journey Bloom Tool And Becoming a Journey Coach

Bloom Tool TO-0073  (video was created by Fun Stampers Journey)

I use my Bloom Tool all the time with my dies.  The brush is wonderful for "brushing" out those tiny pieces that get caught in the intricate dies.   The Spatula tool I use like they show in the video to get between the die and the card stock so that it will release.  There Dental Tool and the Paper Piercer are perfect for "poking" an item through either the cardstock or on the die.   The rounded ball ones will help to add dimension to your items such as flowers and leaves.

Definitely a tool I use all the time with my Journey Platinum Machine TO-0090   An amazing machine that uses thin metal dies, steel rule dies, and embossing folders.    It is compact as easy to store as the sides fold up.  It even has a handle that slides into the machine.   The platform is magnetic which means great positioning for stamping and cutting.   It has a very large cutting surface compared to many machines ... it uses 8.7" x 12" cutting plates.

During the month of April, Fun Stampers Journey is doing a "You Rule" promotion for anyone that would like to join Fun Stampers Journey as a Coach.   Did you realize that Fun Stampers Journey encourages both business and hobby Coaches!!!   What an awesome way to buy products at a discount.

Fun Stampers Journey You Rule Promotion - Click Here to view on-line.
This will explain everything you will receive in our kit.  It is an amazing deal.   Contact me if you have any questions.  I would love to add you to my team of creative individuals.

If you know you definitely want to sign up, please go to my website and click on "Become a Coach".  There is a link to the application there.  Just be sure at the top of the application it shows "Referred by:  Mary Director".  That guarantees you will be part of my team.  

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available  

Fun Stampers Journey - My Craft Organization - Storing Journey Dies

Trust me I am not always organized.   This weekend I got busy and decided to organized my Fun Stampers Journey storage space.   I can easily access what I need.  Now as I add to my product that I own, I may need to branch out to other areas that I have miscellaneous craft items.   But for now, all of my FSJ items are in one location.

The base is a Closet Maid Cube Organizer.   You can find similar/same at most of the big box stores and sometimes even Big Lots.  You can put canvas cube bags in each cube area.   I have acrylic card stock holders (5 per cube area).   The top (light wood part) is actually 2 stamp case units set side by side by Stamp-N-Storage.   They are made for another company's clear mount stamp sets.   They are perfect for my supplies for Fun Stampers Journey.   The floral blue box (like a shoe box but a bit higher was used for my stamp sets and die sets..   Center cube is for my catalog storage but eventually will be for more stamp sets and die sets too.

All of the Journey Dies come in a envelope type container.   The dies are loose.   I wanted a way to keep them a bit more organized  so I purchased thin/flexible magnetic sheets to put my dies on.  The sheets can be easily cut with scissors.   I put the dies on the magnetic sheet then cut the magnetic sheet down to the size needed.  No waste and they fit easily back into the envelope they came in.

Here are the photos of the dies with the magnetic sheets:

The magnetic sheet does NOT have to exact size of the dies.

As you can see in this photo the dies are larger, but still are adhering well.  

When I took this photo I just set the dies with the magnetic sheets on their envelopes.  That is why you might see what appears to be dies off to the side.  It is actually the photo on the envelope itself.

As you can see, I used all different sizes of the magnetic sheet.   The sheets I purchased were 4" x 12" with 4 sheets to a package.

Even our tiniest dies work well on the magnetic sheet.

Do you need to store your dies on a magnetic sheet?  No, absolutely not.   Fun Stampers Journey does not sell these type of sheets.  You can find them on-line, and I have heard of people even going to their local hardware store and using magnetic vent covers.   There are all kinds of options of what you can use.

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available  

Fun Stampers Journey Creating Backgrounds With Ink Splat Stamp

I really enjoy creating my own backgrounds using stamp sets, embossing folders, inks, and embellishments.   Yesterday on my blog I featured four different cards.   Three of these cards were made using backgrounds I had created.

Today I wanted to share with you some closeup shots of the backgrounds.

This first photo is of all three backgrounds I created.  

Remember to click on photos to get a closer look.

This one was creating using one color of ink plus embossing.

Ink Splat AT-0108

Petals Wall Embossing Folder EF-0007

Blue Lagoon Stamp Pad IP-0002

Whip Cream Card Stock CS-0040

 This was created with 2 colors of ink plus embossing

The other colors were created when the inks combined with each other.

Ink Splat AT-0108

Ink Splash Embossing Folder - EF-0008 

Blue Lagoon Stamp Pad IP-0002

Sweet Berry Stamp Pad IP-0029

Whip Cream Card Stock CS-0040

Here is the combination of 3 colors of inks plus embossing.

So many more colors in this as they combined and blended together.

Ink Splat AT-0108

Yummy Dots Embossing Folder EF-0010

Blue Lagoon Stamp Pad IP-0002

Black Licorice Stamp Pad IP-0041

Green Olive Stamp Pad IP-0072

Whip Cream Card Stock CS-0040

I was amazed at how easy it was ot create different looks with this great stamp "Ink Splat AT-0108".   This was my first time using this stamp, but it definitely won't be my last.  The color combinations are endless as new colors are created as different ink colors overlay each other and create new colors.

Using the embossing folders after stamping the background adds in depth and dimension to the cards.

These type of backgrounds are perfect for almost all occasions:  Birthday, Anniversary, Thank You, Thinking of You.

Mary Director
Fun Stampers Journey Coach 
http://www.funstampersjourney.com/marydirector
24/7 on-line ordering available